The Public Interest Initiative (PII) serves as the center for student public interest work at Widener Law’s Harrisburg campus. You can improve your practical legal skills while performing legal services to benefit organizations or individuals dedicated to charitable works, civil liberties, or public rights.

How Public Interest Work Can Benefit YouYou can derive a number of significant benefits from volunteering even though PII opportunities are unpaid and not for academic credit. Put your legal skills to practical use while learning from experienced professionals eager to share their experience with you. Public Interest placements allow you to make a difference in the lives of clients who can really use your help while you build your résumé. The PII also tracks your volunteer hours and acknowledges exceptional service.

The Opportunity to Make a DifferenceAccording to the American Bar Association, “every lawyer has a professional responsibility to provide legal services to those unable to pay.” If you have completed your first year of law school in good academic standing, the PII can offer you a placement to suit your needs and interests. Look for opportunities through PSLawNet a worldwide public service law network that serves over 150 law schools and over 12,000 public service organizations.